Norfolk’s 43rd annual Harborfest returns to Town Point Park

NORFOLK, Va. - Harborfest, the largest and longest-running maritime festival in the nation, has returned for its 2019 season.

The festival will be held from June 7 to June 9 in Town Point Park on the Elizabeth River to Ocean View Beach Park on the Chesapeake Bay.

There will be activities on land, air and sea, including including tall ships and the Parade of Sail, artisan foods and beverages, unique and unusual performances, one of the largest fireworks and choreographed drone shows on the East Coast!

Organizers did not want to talk specifically about security, but they did say they are working with the Norfolk Police Department. Norfolk Police say they have plenty of police detailed to Harborfest to ensure a safe and fun atmosphere.

Due to inclement weather, Norfolk Festevents announced the festival was canceled for Friday. Much of Friday night's scheduled entertainment and programming was rescheduled for Saturday and Sunday, including DJ AFISHAL's headline performance.

The drone show that was scheduled for Saturday has been canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions. Organizers say the fireworks display is still scheduled to be launched over the Elizabeth River and has been moved to the original time of 9:30 p.m.

“The winds today are just not cooperating as they continue to pick up through the evening hours, with some light rain a factor as well. We function under very specific weather conditions to maintain safe operational flight aspects. Currently, we have winds gusting to 22 mph with a continued forecast of it increasing. These values are at ground level and show values greater than 25 mph at 200 feet. The cloud ceiling is also a factor by being too low today at 700 feet above the ground, in which we require a 1200 ft. ceiling minimum. All of these factors, forecasts and minimum weather requirements set forth by the FAA are what we must maintain for safety and regulatory compliance. We will be back soon with an amazing show for all of you to enjoy,” explained Matt Quinn, Director of Operations at Great Lakes Drone Company.